Providing live aid Big in Japan: DB’s Warren Chow
Child therapy works Finding the right support for your kids
Extend your horizons Hot design ideas for cool balconies
M AY
2 0 12
Publishers in DB since 2002
MAY 2012
尚堤 CHIANTI 2433
4 2
Beautiful renovation throughout. Open kitchen with balcony
海燕徑 SEABIRD LANE 1357
2 2
2
2
$3.88M
Fully furnished, renovated interior. Quiet area
海澄湖畔1座 SIENA 1 2556
3
$55K
Renovated, private garden size terrace makes great entertaining space
寶安閣 BLOSSOM COURT 814
3
$70K
$35M
Good renovation throughout, large garden. Convenient location
碧濤軒 COASTLINE 2174
5 3
Nicely Renovated large family home. Great outdoor space
畔山徑 MIDDLE LANE 1616
3 2
$90K
$38K
4 2
3 2
$8M
$9.5M
Beautiful renovation. Great views with roof terrace
3
$120K
Large Family home with plunge pool. South Views
觀景樓 CLEARVIEW 583
1
Fully renovated combined unit, large open kitchen with balcony. Sea view
蘅欣徑 CAPERIDGE DRIVE 1311
4
1
Very spacious family home. Good location with large Balcony
靖山閣 GREENERY COURT 1373
海蜂徑 SEABEE LANE 3100
Large Studio flat with great views overlooking Hong Kong
寶琳閣 Woodland 895
3 2
2
$4.85M
Good condition, lots of light with balcony
海澄湖畔2座 SIENA 2 1385
3
$12K
$17M
Well renovated interior. Great space and very practical layout, large garden
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Splash Tunnel
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Pedder Building Store 5/F Pedder Building,12 Pedder Street, Central T: 2522 7112 Horizon Plaza Store 21/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau T: 2552 5000 www.bumpstobabes.com
CONTENTS FEATURES 18
22
DEAR READER
72
18 22 28 35 40 44 50 56
PROFILE Celebrating 20 years’ service to the community with Dr Yau IN FOCUS Did you know DB is a breeding ground for… authors? FAMILY MATTERS Time to take the taboo out of child therapy MONEY MATTERS Your update on the Western economies TALKING POINTS Not just for Mother’s Day… recording family memories ESCAPES Making the most of all that’s new in old Peking ACTION How one DBer took on the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea STYLE Practical design tips for high-flying balconies
REGULARS 10 16 42 60 62 66 68 70 72
IN & AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news SOUTH LANTAU What’s happening island wide TECH TREND Why QR codes are the next big thing HOTSTUFF Hip happenings around Hong Kong LOCAL FACES Community snaps in DB and Lantau CLASSIFIEDS Great deals PROPERTY Hot local listings DB NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB DB MOMENTS What Warren Chow of DB’s Apple Travel is doing to aid Japan
I wouldn’t exactly say it’s a ‘mumsie’ mag this month but as we celebrate Mother’s Day on May 13, there’s certainly a lot of features to interest yummy DB mummys. As a mother of two, I feel I can vouch for our lead article on the benefits of therapy for children, and our interview with DB’s own Dr Yau, who has been doctor on call here for 20 years. If you’re looking for inspiration on Mother’s Day gifts turn to page 40, where you’ll find a timeless piece about preserving your family’s history through keepsakes, quilts and memory books. Our in-house photographer Tracey van Geest also shares her thoughts on taking top family photos – be a clown, she says! Of course mummys (and the rest of our loyal readership) come in all shapes and sizes, so this month we’re also getting physical on the
Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea and finding out why QR codes are so hot in the US. Did you know too that Discovery Bay is a hotbed of authors? And that good balcony design is all about paring back to the bare necessities. Read on! Wishing you all a marvellous month, especially all you hardworking mums out there.
How child therapy works Finding the right support for your kids
Extend your horizons Hot design ideas for cool balconies
Live aid
Dancing the night away – for charity Photo: Bethan Dunnet
Why DB's Warren Chow is big in Japan
MAY
2 0 12
Publishers in DB since 2002
On the cover: DB’s Warren Chow providing aid in Japan
Publisher
Corinne Jedwood corinne@arounddb.com Editor
Rachel Ainsley editor@arounddb.com
The Tung Chung Women’s Club Spring Charity Ball, held at SkyCity Marriott Hotel on April 21, was a resounding success. Over 90 people danced the night away to the sounds of DB’s own @One, and helped to raise more than HK$60,000. All proceeds will go to Freedom Care, a charity that homes Nepalese orphans. To learn more and see how you can help, visit http:// freedomcareproject.org/update-feb-2012. This project is supported by the Child Welfare Scheme (CWS).
Community news
Dana Winograd dana@arounddb.com Advertising
Lissa Morris lissa@arounddb.com
DB Pirates’ Awards Day Photos: Karen Sisterson and Amy Freed
Art direction
Terry Chow
Photography
In DB: Tracey van Geest tracey@inspiredimages.co In South Lantau: Zoe Lyle zlyle@me.com Illustration
Richard Leschinsky Accounts
Lise Dooling accountant@arounddb.com Contributors this month
Andrew Dembina Lauren Gordon Martin W. Hennecke Elizabeth Kerr Paula Lepore Burrough Matt McLaughlin Catharine Nicol Karmel Schreyer Mary Singer
On April 22, the DB Pirates celebrated the club and its players’ achievements, and got the local rugby community together for a fun day of activities (and hot dog eating). Here they announced that one of their sponsors has immortalised the club and its victories with a custom-made trophy cabinet located at the Pirates’ clubhouse (aka Hemingway’s).
Island dancers wow at the Sevens
General enquiries
info@arounddb.com Published by
Bay Media Limited Flat 230, Block D, DB Plaza Discovery Bay, Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2987 0577 Fax: (852) 2987 0533 Disclaimer The views expressed in Around DB
are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.
At the Rugby Sevens in March, 120 performers from Island Dance (alongside the Hong Kong Martial Arts Group and CPG Dancers) put on a fantastic show at half time. This was a real East meets West extravaganza with the dancers sparkling in red and gold alongside the martial artists, lions and dragons. The 12-minute performance was beautifully choreographed and one of the most colourful the Rugby Sevens has ever seen. To contact Island Dance, call 29871571.
Totally incredible Easter egg hunt Photos: Alan Li and Niamh Neville
Despite the rain, everyone had a blast at the Discovery Bay Easter Egg Hunt and Fun Fair on Tai Pak Beach, April 7. A section of the beach was cordoned off and some 3,200 children took part in the hunt for over 30,000 eggs. Eight eggs contained prizes worth HK$10,000 in total – the event was sponsored by Hong Kong Broadband Network (HKBN).
Book signing for Peter Nixon Photos: Tracey van Geest
Peter Nixon, a long-time DB resident, has just seen his second book, Dialogue Gap, hit local bookshelves. The book was a sell-out at the very well-attended launch at Dymocks in Discovery Bay on April 14. Peter came up with the concept while consulting, coaching and training thousands of senior executives around the world. You can read all about the DB writers’ community in our infocus feature, page 22.
Journey to the Plastic Ocean Fundraiser Photos: Baljit Gidwani
Tracey Read’s fundraiser for her upcoming 7,000-mile research trip (by boat) from Tokyo to Maui was held at Hemingway’s on April 21. The highlight of the evening was the fantastic 'trashion' shown off in the guests. The crew will be searching for large debris from last year’s tsunami in Japan, but also skimming the ocean surface to investigate the quantity and distribution of plastic pollution throughout the North Pacific Gyre. After her trip, Tracey will use her knowledge to help educate and bring awareness to school children around Hong Kong. For more information on Tracey’s journey, visit http:// journeytotheplasticocean.wordpress.com.
May 2012
9
MAY AT A GLANCE
IN & AROUND DB
MAY 2012
WHEN
WHAT
WHERE
May 5-6, 7pm-9pm
D Deck Best Music Best Taste with SriJazz
D Deck Waterfront Promenade
May 6, 12pm-5pm
DB Backyard Bazaar
DB Plaza
May 6, 8am
Bonaqua Action Asia Race
DB Plaza
May 8-12
Mega Ice Hockey 5s Hong Kong Tournament
MegaBox, Kowloon
May 18-20
HKFC Citibank International Soccer 7s
Hong Kong Football Club
May 19, 9am–1pm
Beach Clean up
Nim Shue Wan Beach
May 20
Lantau Calves Triathlon
Club Siena
May 22, 8.30pm
Punchline Comedy Club Night
Hemingway’s
May 26, 7pm-9pm
Wine and Food Pairing Evening
Discovery College
If you organise an event, club or charity that you would like to see featured in this section, please contact communitynews@arounddb.com.
Comedy club
giveaway
COMPETITION
The Punchline Comedy Club is back again this month at Hemingway’s on May 22 at 8.30pm with comedians Geoff Norcott and Dave Williams, both from the UK and Rob Brown from Australia. If March’s show is anything to go by, the event will be sold out – book early by calling 2987 8855 after 3pm. If you miss out in DB, you can catch the act at Duetto (formerly The Viceroy) in Wanchai, May 17-19.
The Punchline Comedy Club is offering two readers a pair of tickets each to see the DB performance at Hemingway’s. To have a chance to win simply tell us when Rob Brown made his first stage appearance. Be the first to email your answer to info@arounddb.com (subject line: Punchline). Need a clue? Check out www.comedianrobbrown.com.
Good wishes for Mother's Day
Around DB wishes all of you local mums a happy Mother’s Day. On the second Sunday of the month, May 13 this year, children from many countries including Hong Kong and China, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and more recently India will be showing their respect for their mothers in some special way. Send us a photo of how you have honoured your mother this year and we’ll post it on our soon-to-launch website, www.arounddb.com.
Congratulations to last month’s winners Alison Chui, Liz Hern, Methew Mau, Micheline Stockton, Nerida Kiprotich and Miranda Barnes for a gift certificate from Bizzie Lizzie; Kim Stockert for a Zen Happiness Experience treatment from SPA by MTM; Ike Dewi and Rozemarijn Stol for tickets to Annie; Adele Pieper, Sylvia Yeung and Dan Dia-Tsi-Tay for tickets to see The Trocks; Oscar Choo and Linda Barnes for tickets to see Yellow Face. Please call our office on 2987 0577 to claim your prize.
10
May 2012
MAY 2012
DB wine and food pairing evening
Foodies need to head up to the roof garden at Discovery College on May 26 from 7pm to 9pm. Apron Strings, in collaboration with Portrait Wines and Classified, is hosting an evening of wine, canapés and artisan cheese. Jackie Scott from Portrait winemakers will introduce five award-winning wines for tasting, while Wendy Wu of Classified will present a selection of international cheeses. Apron Strings catering will pair the wines with a selection of mouth-watering canapés. Entry costs HK$450 per person. You can RSVP at bookings@apronstrings.com.hk or visit www.apronstrings.com.hk.
Good works for
IN & AROUND DB
Island Dance
Japan
annual extravaganza
Warren Chow of Apple Travel in the Plaza is calling for assistance in his bid to provide on-going aid to Japan. Focusing on the Matsushima/ Fukushima area north of Tokyo, which is still deserted one year after the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, Warren is calling for donations and has already provided HK$200,000 himself. You can find out more by stopping by Apple Travel, or turning to the last page of this issue where we detail the motivation behind Warren’s good works.
Island Dance’s End of Year Show is always an incredible spectacle so make a date in your diary for The Voyage of Dance, June 8-10. Tickets for the performance at the Y-Theatre in Chai Wan go on sale May 8. The Voyage of Dance follows the travels of a cruise ship that stops off at various ports, with a special dance linked to each. The evening performance for DB kids age 9 and up will be on June 9, and there’s a matinee on June 10 for kids 4 to 8. You can make a booking at www.urbtix.hk or by calling 2111 5999.
Make time for a
Free art classes, anyone? triathlon
COMPETITION
ColourStorm Art Centre opened in DB North Plaza in March. Founder Binnie Hu and her team give quality art classes in a relaxing and fun environment which boasts a spectacular ocean view overlooking Disneyland. Art classes (painting and graphic design) are offered Monday to Saturday; morning art playgroups are held from Monday to Thursday. ColourStorm Art Centre also hosts evening artjamming sessions and art parties for all ages. For more details, visit www.colourstormartcentre.com or call 2325 3999.
ColourStorm Art Centre is giving away one month’s free art classes (four lessons, valued at HK$1,000) to two lucky readers. For a chance to win, simply tell us what the slogan is on the ColourStorm Art Centre logo. Be the first to send your answer to info@arounddb.com (subject line: ColourStorm).
The Lantau Buffalos are organising the Lantau Calves – 2012 Ageas Triathalon Relay, a race for kids and adults, on the morning of May 20 in and around Club Siena. Kids and their parents will team up at this exciting event to swim, bike and run/ scoot to the finish line! Age groups range from 10+ to 50+, and the focus is on fun and teamwork. See the Lantau Buffalos website for more details, www. lantaubuffalos.org, or contact Siegfried at events@lantaubuffalos.org. The triathlon is supported by title sponsor Ageas Insurance and venue sponsor Discovery Bay Recreation Club.
May 2012
11
IN & AROUND DB
MAY 2012
Rugby Win a weekend of players' football ball
The DB Pirates’ Ball, on May 19 at Zaks, Hemingway’s and 22° North, promises to be a fun-filled celebration for all. There’ll be an open bar at Zaks from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, plus a buffet dinner. Revellers can also claim two ‘pirate coins’ to buy drinks at Hemingway’s ‘Rum Bar’ or the 22° North ‘Bubbles Bar’.
COMPETITION
Photo courtesy of DB Pirates
The world’s best seven-a-side football tournament, the HKFC Citibank International Soccer 7s, is being held May 18-20 at the Hong Kong Football Club. Various DB Dragons’ teams will be playing throughout the weekend, and favourites playing for the DB Masters’ team include treble winners Teddy Sheringham, David Howells and Darren Anderton. All spectators are allowed in free on Friday evening, and adults can gain admission on Saturday and Sunday by purchasing a souvenir programme at the gate – HK$120 for one day or HK$200 for both days. Entry is free for children under 16.
Photo by Gary Stokes
One lucky reader can win a pair of two-day admission/ souvenir programmes (worth HK$400) by being the first to email us at info@arounddb.com (subject line: Soccer 7s) with the names of three teams participating in the competition. Visit the event website at www.hksoccersevens.com for more information.
Wizard deals Action Asia for Around DB families DB race Around DB is excited to announce its new partnership with Red Wizard. The aim is to introduce families to child-related products, services and experiences at significantly reduced rates. For example, you can enjoy 50% off nursing covers and bodysuits from Bebe2Be; up to 55% off children’s books and children’s/ parenting magazines from Bookazine; and a 55% discount on family photography from Love True Light. At newly opened Tiny Footprints in Central, there’s also a 50% discount on offer on various products including baby food. As an Around DB reader you can take advantage of special discounts by entering the code HOCUSPOCUS when you register. So, don’t hesitate, visit the Red Wizard website (www.redwizard.com.hk) today. All these offers will also be showcased on www.arounddb.com, launching soon. Red Wizard is committed to giving back to the community, donating 5% of proceeds to local children’s charities such as the Christina Noble Children’s Foundation and Bring Me a Book. The more people buy, the more Red Wizard donates!
12
May 2012
Wet, muddy, slippery but fun: be ready to join the Bonaqua Action Asia races this year. The last leg of the four races is being held in DB on May 6. It’s a 12-kilometre race suitable for runners or fast hikers of all ages. Don’t forget that helmets are mandatory – most of the course involves trail running or hiking but there are small rocky sections. You can upload course maps at www.actionasiaevents.com.
At Treat Boutique Tuesdays to Fridays 10am to 2.30pm
Classy Queens Florist
6626 5470
Ready to send flowers to make someone smile?
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Sunwood is currently selling this swimsuit by L*Space “retail Price USD120 selling for HK$600” Only available in black, white and red, size L (34/36”).
We are offering free delivery to Discovery Bay and Tung Chung until 13 May 2012 Tel: 9439 7820 www.classyqueensflorist.com Email: classyqueensflorist@hotmail.com.hk
Come try on!
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DB Wine & Food pairing event • A tasting evening with Wine, Canapés and Artisan cheese • In collaboration with Portrait Winemakers and Classified Cheese Room.
Saturday 26th May, 2012 7pm - 9pm 6th Floor Roof Garden, Discovery College Price: $450 per person RSVP: bookings@apronstrings.com.hk www.apronstrings.com.hk/wine
IN & AROUND DB
MAY 2012
DBees at Asia’s hottest ice-hockey tournament
For the third year in a row, the DBees’ hockey teams are participating in the Mega Ice Hockey 5s Tournament, the largest icehockey tournament in Asia. You can catch the event from May 8-12 at MegaBox in Kowloon. Last year 85 teams (more than 1,300 players) from over 14 cities participated. The DBees are entering players into four teams this year in the Squirt (10 to 11), the Pewee (12 to 13) and the Bantam divisions (14 to 15). Last year both the Squirt and Pewee teams made it all the way to the finals and we hope to see them go even further this year. Best of luck to the DBees!
Dragon boat
race days
Photo courtesy of LIOCC
It’s that time of year again, so get out your paddles and get ready to be splashed! DB’s big race day is on June 23, but there are lots of opportunities to get a bit of the action before then. You can cheer on the team we sponsor, DB’s Lantau Island Outriggers, at the Lamma 500 Dragon Boat Race on May 6, and at the Deep Water Bay Dragon Boat Races on May 20.
Best book on Lantau
COMPETITION
Be sure to check out local residents Lo Yin Shan and Anthony McHugh’s Driving Lantau – Whisper of an Island, a gorgeous book chronicling the beauty of the island, and the lives of its inhabitants. The book looks back over the past few decades to provide a delightful overview in both words and pictures. Its diverse stories and photographs will be a delight for everyone living on Lantau Island. For more information, visit www.mccmcreations. com, or pick up a copy at The Bookshop in Mui Wo (2984 9371) or in DB (2987 9372).
14
MCCM Creations is offering a copy of Driving Lantau - Whisper of an Island to two readers who can name its authors. The first two readers who email us the correct answer will each win a copy of the book. Please email us at info@arounddb.com (subject line: Driving Lantau)
May 2012
Biocycle
opens in DB
Due to popular demand, Asia-wide pest-exterminator Biocycle (HK) Ltd has opened a branch in DB. BioCycle has vast experience dealing with structural pests and specialises in Wood Destroying Insect (WDI) pests, such as termites. Its BioKill® biocide products are not harmful to warm-blooded animals. Combining its expertise in termite biology, treatment products and building construction practices, Biocycle can deal with all your pest problems. For details visit www.biocycle.hk or call 3599 9042.
In Memorium: Teresita Tobiano December 11, 1960 – March 28, 2012
Teresita Tobiano, whose tragic story we have been following for the past few months, lost her battle with breast cancer at the end of March. Many DB residents provided financial support (as well as their thoughts and prayers) for Teresita, a helper from the Philippines living in Hong Kong for almost 20 years. Teresita was incredibly thankful and comforted by the community’s kindness.
NEW OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 9am -7pm Saturday & Sunday 10am -7pm Professional nail services in a relaxing environment, conveniently located in the Plaza.
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2987 2266
S ha L o Wan
Photo by Terry Chow
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12M
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San Shek Wan 2,100’ + rooftop
A light and airy village house with lovely views. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Decked rooftop perfect for entertaining.
Great designed village house. 3 large bedrooms, 3 amazing bathrooms. Lovely, peaceful and close to nature.
28K/20K
1.8M
CHEUNG SHA Leyburn Villa Approx 1300’/1000’
HAM TIN Village House G/F 450’
Newly renovated 3 or 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Large open living areas. Pool and tennis court in the complex. Close to the beach
Great Value. Newly renovated to high standard. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom. Plenty of natural light. Ready to move in.
Lantau Leases
8.95M/30K Pui O Village House 2100’ w/ 700’ roof
Beautiful decoration, great sea & mountain views! 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, laundry, & multiple living areas! Close to schools, restaurants, beaches and parking! Easy commute to central!
Village Houses from HK$34K/HK$5.2M for 2,100’ plus 700’ roof
Come live the good life!
www.homesolutions.hk | property@homesolutions.hk
16
May 2012
www.bizzielizziehongkong.com Email: Bizzielizzie.hk@gmail.com Tel: 2984 2227 Tuesday to Saturday 10.30 to 6.30, Sunday 10.30 - 6.00, Monday closed.
EVENTS Easter festivities Fun was had by everyone at this year’s (rainy) Easter celebrations in Mui Wo on April 8. Participants had the opportunity to join the parade, hunt for eggs and enter the Easter bonnet contest. The Groovy Crew (of about 35 children) opened the egg hunt with a dance performance on the beach. The kids enjoyed finding their coloured lollipop sticks during the Easter egg hunt, and loved the prizes from Bizzie Lizzie toy shop.
Bizzie Lizzie book signing On March 24, Liz Hemmings from Bizzie Lizzie hosted a book signing for Liina Klaus’ book I Love Japan. To create the picture book Liina collected drawings from 24 international ar tists (plus a number of Lantau contributors). Most of the sales proceeds will pay for 1,000 copies to go to the children of Japan who were affected by last year’s tsunami and earthquake.
Photo by Zoe Lyle
Photos by Zoe Lyle
STUDY IN ENGLISH IN SOUTH LANTAU at Buddhist Fat Ho Memorial College (BFHMC) • Small classes • Low tuition: HKD300/month (10 months) • Culturally-diverse student population • Full English stream • Full Chinese stream • Local curriculum (HKDSE) • GCSE Chinese • School buses from Tung Chung and Mui Wo • Boarding houses available Address: 99 Tai O Road, Tai O, Lantau Island Email: bfhmc@eservices.hkedcity.net Website: www.bfhmc.edu.hk For more information contact Cynthia Lee or Raj Gill on (852) 2985 5365
FERRY SCHEDULES From DB Mon-Sat (except PH) 7:15am Sun and PH only 8:45am Sat, Sun and PH 10:45am Mon-Fri (except PH) 11:00am Sun and PH only 11:45am
From Mui Wo 7:45am 9:15am 11:15am 11:30am 12:15pm
Sat, Sun and PH Daily except Sat Daily Daily Sat, Sun and PH May 2012
From DB 1:15pm 3:00pm 4:15pm 6:15pm 8:05pm
From Mui Wo 1:45pm 3:30pm 4:45pm 6:45pm 8:30pm
17
Photo by Tracey van Geest
PROFILE
18
Dr Yau at the Discovery Bay Medical Centre
May 2012
PROFILE
on call
Dr Yau Wing Him, the ‘dean’ of DB medical practitioners, looks back on 20 years’ service to the community, with Mary Singer
M
any of us remember when the Discovery Bay Medical Centre was a much smaller practice, located at about the spot where you find the ginger root and shallots in Fusion today. How things have changed! The whole plaza has been remodelled but, 20 years on, Dr Yau is still here helping to make sure we’re keeping as healthy as we can. It all began in 1991, while Dr Yau was working in the UK. He saw an advertisement for a General Practitioner (GP) in Discovery Bay, a place which none of his relatives in Hong Kong had heard of. “It was a time in the NHS [National Health Service] when major changes were taking place in the way doctors would be paid, so doctors were leaving if they could. I was one of the lucky ones who had another country to go to,” he says. “I did not start the practice. Dr [Tim] Sheehan came to Discovery Bay in 1989 for a summer job. He saw the potential of DB and bought the [then parttime] practice.” So, on a November day, Dr Yau flew from a wet miserable London and arrived in a sunny adolescent DB, and he fell in love with the place instantly. He headed back to the UK, handed in his resignation and started work at the resort in early 1992.
Starting out with Dr Sheehan After 10 years as a GP in the UK, Dr Yau found Discovery Bay ‘very refreshing’. “I loved the work; you could get on with it independently. We were treating real medical problems, not just writing sick certificates or social-benefit reports. It was a tough job, especially being on call every three nights, but we were paid well for working hard,” he says. After one year, Dr Sheehan sold Dr Yau an equal-share partnership, and in 1999 they sold the thriving practice to Quality HealthCare (QH). “Selling to QH was what Dr Sheehan wanted. His two boys were approaching secondary school age and he wanted to relocate back to
May 2012
19
PROFILE
the UK. As an equal-share partner, I could have vetoed the deal but Dr Sheehan would have ‘killed’ me,” Dr Yau explains with a smile. One of the conditions of the deal was that Dr Sheehan had to stay in DB at least two years, Dr Yau at least three years.
As for what the future holds, Dr Yau says, “I am old enough to realise that making future plans is not a privilege I am allowed. I know roughly what I would like to do in the next week or months. Beyond that, I will see what opportunities come my way and hope I make the right choice.”
Dr Yau recalls his friend, fellow doctor and former business partner with great fondness. “Dr Sheehan was an exceptional personality. Unlike most doctors I know he had a great mathematical mind and could do quick mental calculations whilst the rest of us were still looking for a calculator. He could also charm you within minutes. After talking with him, you would leave his room with a warm glow even if you couldn’t remember what he’d actually said. His social skills helped him to have a wide social network, so he was always up-to-date with the latest developments in DB. As a result, his timing was near perfect. He was one of the smartest people I’ve ever met. He would have made a good politician.”
Recalling SARS
Dr Yau in the old days with the late Dr Tim Sheehan
As a family practitioner, Dr Yau treats everything from sport’s injuries to post-natal depression… often on a daily basis. But what are his memories of 2003, and the effect of SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) on our community? “I remember DB was very quiet during SARS. Many families had left,” he says. “Those who remained did not dare venture out. Facemasks became a hot topic of daily conversation: who was selling boxes of them, which type was the best, etc. Another was how many boxes of Tamiflu you had stockpiled. “Our practice was not too badly affected during SARS,” Dr Yau continues. “The patient attendance was still 60-70% of the norm because lots of people thought they had SARS and had to be told they didn’t, plus there were still all the usual illnesses which occur whether there is SARS or not.”
Mountain biking in the Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana
Dr Yau’s survival kit Dr Yau says his spare time is his ‘survival kit’. “I love listening to an eclectic range of music. I watch TV for my bedtime story. I do gym or swimming if I finish work promptly. I play tennis on weekends. I take my mountain bike out if I want a bit of scary fun. For holidays, I used to scuba dive but now I prefer skiing.” Some of the doctor’s most memorable adventures are mountain biking trips with ‘crazy’ friends. “We have been to the Baja desert in Mexico (including island-hopping in a kayak along the coast); the Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana, sleeping under the stars; and the island of Sardinia off the west coast of Italy.”
20
May 2012
At the London Museum
8
on BT
go t UR s t a
e ay k c i th M
T
le sa IX
8 – 10 JUNE 2012 at Y-THEATRE, HONG KONG Internet Ticketing www.urbtix.hk | Telephone Credit Card Booking 2111 5999 | Telephone Enquiries & Reservations 2734 9009
www.islanddance.com.hk
Lead photo by Tracey van Geest
INFOCUS
Dymocks is stacked with books by DB writers
22
May 2012
INFOCUS
write on,
DB!
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anity publishing… what’s that? And how much more proof do you need? The ascendancy of social media is but one more indication that everyone can write – and that everyone should! The written word is no longer jealously guarded by those who hold the reins of power, withheld as a way to control the masses. Gone are the days when writing and reading were the reserve of the so-called elite, and when the publishing industry was a stuffy ‘old boys’ club. They didn’t need to be paid much, because they didn’t need the money.
Photos by Tracey van Geest
Discovery Bay is full of literary artists who are endeavouring to bring their stories to wider audiences. Karmel Schreyer helps spread the word film-making as the medium for her mission. “Film-making is better for my ‘lullophobia’ [the fear of a lull] in that it offers instant gratification,” she says. “But make no mistake: if some publisher asks me to write another book, I will gladly do it! I have the title and first sentence all ready. Now someone please give me a deadline!”
The publishing industry still doesn’t pay very well, but thanks to new communications and printing technologies, including e-publishing, print-on-demand (POD) and template-based digital printing, so-called ‘ordinary people’ are finding their own admiring audiences while holding down their day jobs.
Recently launched in DB Around DB contributor and blonde China-traveller Cecilie Gamst Berg has had a loyal following in Hong Kong and in her native Norway for years now, for her Cantonese-bypodcast series, and for the novel Blonde Lotus, published in 2005, in which she records the fictionalised racy encounters of a blonde woman travelling in China. Pui O resident Cecilie is also known for her quirky sense of humour, which is clearly visible on the front cover of her latest book, Don’t Joke On The Stairs, launching in DB this month. Publisher Blacksmith Books describes the work as Cecilie’s romp through ‘the non-stop surreal-fest that is today’s China, stopping occasionally to ruminate about the travails of trying to make Cantonese a world language’. Citing a lack of financial reward for her books, Cecile is turning to
Cecilie Gamst Berg
May 2012
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INFOCUS
DB resident Peter Nixon launched his latest book, Dialogue Gap: Why Communication Isn’t Enough and What We Can Do About It, Fast, in Singapore in February. There was a Hong Kong launch in April at the DB Dymocks. Says Peter Lau, owner of Dymocks Discovery Bay, “For the past six years, we've worked with local authors in order to promote their work by organising different events, including a reading marathon, charity sales and book donations. We are committed to investing our time, expertise and resources here in DB.”
Talking of prize-winning authors this article would not be complete without a shout out to DB resident Justin Hill whose novels have long been showered with awards, notably the 2005 Somerset Maugham Award, for Passing under Heaven. Last year, writing from DB, Justin completed the first of his Conquest Trilogy, Shieldwall, an historical novel chronicling life in Britain in the lead up to the Battle of Hastings, 1066. If historical fiction is your thing, be sure to check out Martyn Arnold’s Akkadian Dynasty, published in 2011 and also written in DB.
What Philippe Joly has to say Special interest stories Here on the resort it makes sense that many of our writers are focused on kids… or are kids themselves. Longtime Discovery Bay International School teachers Paul Allams and Marie Marchand collaborated in 2006 on their children’s book Home From Home, with its distinctly DB theme. Primary teacher Kris Stanhope’s award-winning debut young-adult novel, “Why I Hate School” by Michael Fatarsky, was published in 2008 by Scholastic in New Zealand when he was a teacher there. The story has just been versioned in Chinese, paving the way to a market of a billion-strong readers. As for DB kid writers, Blaise and Emi Kingan’s debut picture book Joy to the World: 20 ways kids can show kindness to others, and find luck for themselves is available at Dymocks. Jewel Quest, meanwhile, a book by DB teen Gari de Ramos about a brother and sister who go around the world to collect jewels to save their dying grandfather, recently enjoyed a launch at Discovery College.
Prize-winning local authors DBers Gillian and Verner Bickley have had lengthy, highlevel institutional careers in academia and the civil service. Verner's most recent book, the memoir Footfalls Echo in the Memory, and Gillian's fifth poetry collection, Perceptions, were published in 2010 and 2012 respectively. The Bickleys are also co-publishers of Proverse Hong Kong, specialising in books with an Asian focus and/ or by Asian residents. They cofounded the international Proverse Prize for unpublished book-length singleauthor non-fiction, fiction or poetry, submitted in English. DB writer Rebecca Tomasis was an inaugural co-winner of the Proverse Prize with 2010’s Mishpacha – Family, a novel set in Israel.
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DB entrepreneur Philippe Joly in 2011 wrote Potemkin, Inc – How Perception Is Everything And What To Do With It In Business, and published it with no prior experience. “I had no clue whatsoever about the book-publishing business. My old-school view was that publishing a book was a very long and difficult journey, very expensive and full of rejections. When I realised that times had changed drastically and that anyone could now publish a book at a very low cost and
Philippe Joly
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INFOCUS
within weeks, I got the boost of energy that I needed to get started and finally turn my ideas into a published book.”
Go be an author!
Philippe’s sense of purpose paid off very quickly, as the Kindle version entered the bestsellers on Amazon France and Italy in its first week and even held the number one position for books on entrepreneurship.
The following are some recommended local conventional as well as e-publishers, print-ondemand publishers and custom digital-printing houses, plus book packagers and printers, and a literary grant provider
Don’t forget, if you plan to sell your book commercially, you’ll be needing an ISBN number. They're free! Apply to the Hong Kong Government’s Leisure and Cultural Services Department, and you'll be given 10, so you can get to work on your sequel without delay!
Advice from Andrew Woodward Andrew Woodward’s murder mystery The Water Dragon was launched on Amazon in April, 2011. “Commercially the book has been okay,” says Andrew, a DB resident. “But I won’t be retiring on the profits anytime soon. Initially I was limited to selling just via the Kindle and Kindle software; it’s a good deal, the author keeps 70% and Amazon 30% which is a much better return than you will get via other distribution channels. Book sales jumped when I was able to get a paperback version published by Handheld Culture in Quarry Bay.” Currently The Water Dragon is being translated into traditional and simplified Chinese, and Andrew is close to finishing the sequel, The Fire Walker. Andrew’s advice for aspiring writers is to set a target and finish their novel. “No one wants to hear about unfinished ideas or what you are planning to write. Be proactive and seek advice from others and don’t be afraid to show your work around. Try and accept other opinions and don’t be disheartened by criticism or rejection.” So how do you make your pride and joy stand out from the crowd in what is an incredibly competitive marketplace? “I think that’s harder than writing the novel. If you self-publish you don’t have access to the in-house machinery [of, say, Random House]. It’s worth looking at setting up your own website, with a built-in payment system so you can sell your own book, and keep all the profit. Tweeting and blogging can also help raise awareness.” And, I would add, selfpromotion at every opportunity…
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Blacksmith Books, www.blacksmithbooks.com Chameleon Press, www.chameleonpress.com Green Pagoda Press, www.gpp.com.hk Handheld Culture, www.handheldculture.com Haven Books, www.havenbooksonline.com Hong Kong Arts Development Council, www.hkadc.org Inkstone Books, www.inkstone.chameleonpress.com MCCM Creations, www.mccmcreations.com Proverse Hong Kong, www.proversepublishing.com Regal Printing, www.regalprintingltd.com.hk Word Asia, www.wordasia.com
Karmel Schreyer is the author of textbooks, fiction and non-fiction for children and young adults, published in Hong Kong and Canada; visit www.karmelschreyer.blogspot.com. Her SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) memoir, By the Banks of the Brokenhead, published in 2006, was awarded a Hong Kong Arts Development Council grant and nominated for a popular history book-ofthe-year award in her native Canada
Andrew Woodward
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FAMILY MATTERS
Illustration by Richard Leschinsky
wise counsel 28
If your child is having difficulties, a little outside support – from a trained professional – can turn things around in no time. Lauren Gordon reports
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M
any parents are at some time concerned about their child’s development – whether academic, emotional, behavioural or social. But how do you decide if your five-year-old’s struggles with reading, or your nine-year-old’s hyperactivity, or your 14-year-old’s moodiness are simply normal stages of development or something that needs investigation? And how do you find the right help for your child? From talking to specialists in the field, it seems there is a high demand for therapy, counselling and support for children, teens and their parents in DB. Child psychologist John Shanahan says he is sometimes booked six months in advance for assessments here and his appointment schedule for counselling is constantly full. John works with DB’s Island Health and its sister practices in Central and Repulse Bay, providing clients aged three to 20 with therapy for issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, substance and gaming abuse, and selfharm. He also gives psycho-educational assessments which examine children’s academic strengths and weaknesses and flag for learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, Asperger’s syndrome and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In February a new centre offering therapy and counselling for children and adolescents opened in Discovery Bay, and founder Hadas Hecht says the community’s response has been ‘huge’. The Child and Family Development Practice (CFDP) has brought together specialists in a range of fields to provide individual counselling for children and parents, speech and occupational therapy, social and resiliency skills programmes for children of all abilities, and parenting workshops. John says the issues he sees in DB largely mirror those he works with in his other practices. “I’m seeing more and more kids with anxiety,” he says. “I see this across age and gender. I don’t know why, but perhaps one reason is that there is a lot of pressure on kids now; for example, to get into a good school and to do well.” John is also seeing more incidents of parents concerned that their teenagers are abusing drugs.
How do I know if my child needs help? John says that if parents are concerned about their child’s behaviour or development they are usually ‘pretty spot on’. “If you have a niggling concern it’s good to check it out,” he adds. John and Hadas recommend parents initially consult with their family doctor, paediatrician or a child psychologist, or start with their child’s teacher if the concern regards academic progress or behaviour in school. Parents should also consider their child’s developmental stage and personality, Hadas adds, and check they are not expecting too much. “Use the teacher’s familiarity with your child as a source of information, observe other kids,
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talk to other parents, read books and articles about child normative development. Trust your instincts and your experience – you know your child best.” “Often, best practice is when the psychologist, parents and teachers are on the same page and any recommendations are applied consistently across therapy, home and school,” notes John. “I find here in DB teachers are very positive. When a child is spending six or more hours a day with a teacher, if I can give that teacher skills and recommendations it can be very powerful.” John adds that for some issues families may not want the school to be involved.
Where do I seek support? If you are concerned about possible learning difficulties, John recommends approaching a child psychologist. “By looking into all five areas – learning difficulties, emotional, social, behavioural and language issues – a psychologist can rule in and rule out different areas to work on,” he explains.
Taking the steps to gain therapy for your child can be a time consuming and costly venture. So once you have decided to consult with a specialist, the next step is to assess if their recommendations are actually working. In her consultation with the child psychologist, Anna says she explained the behaviours that concerned her and the psychologist gave reassurances and made a lot of useful recommendations. “She even suggested I send her an email after our meeting, like a reflection of what we’d discussed, to ensure I understood all that she’d told me,” Anna explains. “It was very helpful. I only needed one session with the child psychologist and she assured me I didn’t need to bring my son in. It gave me more confidence in myself and how to deal with the situation, and gave me tools I could use to help.” Anna says as a result of the meeting she drew up a contract with her son, detailing what he’d done, why it was wrong and agreeing the consequences if it were ever to happen again. “It was a relief to be told that he’s okay and so am
Hadas Hecht of DB’s Child and Family Development Practice Photo credit: Douglas Pieterse (JD Image Factory)
John advises parents to ‘shop around’ for a psychologist or therapist for their child. “We each have different backgrounds and personalities and it has to feel right. Look at the person’s area of expertise, experience and interests. If they click with you and your child, it’s going to make everything so much easier going forward.” For DB resident Anna Nelson (not her real name), seeking advice from a child psychologist and counsellor was ‘the best thing’ she could have done to help with concerns she had regarding her children. “With my (pre-teen) son I was concerned about some behaviours I was seeing,” she explains. “There were episodes of stealing; some from home and then he was caught stealing from Fusion in DB. I freaked out and decided I needed help, so I went to see a psychologist myself to get her advice.”
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I, and to be given useful information to take away and to research further.”
How long is intervention necessary? The time a child spends in therapy depends on a range of factors. John says these include how early the intervention is, how severe a difficulty is, and whether there is one issue to address or a number. Generally a parent and child should be able to see some improvements in the first couple of weeks of being in therapy or counselling. “Some people I work with for four weeks tops, some I see on and off for up to a year,” he says. “If something is significantly impacting their life, it’s likely I’ll need to work with them for longer.”
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FAMILY MATTERS Hadas says that when assessing if a therapy is working for your child you need to take note of any improvements no matter how large or small. “For children with any difficulty, even a little step is a big achievement. When we work with children we make sure a child masters each skill before going on to the next, so sometimes progress can seem slow. You must always acknowledge the child’s effort as well as the result.” For example, if a child is struggling with writing, simply holding a pencil the right way can be a big achievement, even if the writing is not yet improving. “At the beginning of working with a particular therapy, programme or counsellor it’s also important to know that you can sometimes see regression,” Hadas adds. “It’s new, it’s different, it can be unsettling for the child at first.” Hadas advises parents to discuss with a therapist how long they think they will need to work with their child. “If I am a good therapist, my client learns skills from me and eventually doesn’t need to see me anymore. I don’t want them to be dependent on me, but rather to develop the skills to be more independent.” If improvements seem slow or non-existent John emphasises the need to raise this with the therapist. “If it’s not working, often the answer is not to try harder, but to try a different approach,” he says.
Anna has also seen Hadas, in her role as a counsellor, primarily for parenting advice on how to get her children to take more responsibility. “So much of what Hadas said was common sense, and it was very helpful,” Anna says. “She gave me some practical tips to discuss with the children. We actually drew up a list of their rights, such as play dates and watching TV, and their responsibilities, such as putting their things away and clearing the table. The relationship between the two is the key; they need to fulfil their ‘responsibilities’ if they expect to get their ‘rights’. The whole process was very thorough and very effective.” Having enjoyed the fruits of therapy, Anna is adamant that she wouldn’t hesitate to see somebody in the future if she has any concerns or problems. And not necessarily just for ‘big problems’. She concludes, “I think that as a pro-active parent you want to learn how to effectively raise kids, and gain tools to help you and to help them. If the expertise is there, it is great to use it.”
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MONEYMATTERS
all at
sea
We are receiving mixed messages from central bankers as they steer wildly between inflation targeting and quantitative easing. Martin W. Hennecke charts the waters
I
n a recent monetary policy report to the US Congress, US Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke was seen to get tough on inflation, since he mentioned that some form of inflation-targeting may be introduced soon. This news resulted in a sharp drop in gold and silver prices on the day (as these metals are regarded as the ultimate inflation-hedges), as well as a smaller drawdown in markets generally. Shortly thereafter however, Bernanke made
headlines again, saying that the US economy needed faster growth, which was seen as an indication that quantitative easing may continue, ie that he may have changed his mind, which caused metals and markets to rally back up. To add spice to the pot, markets reversed sharply downwards again on the release of the US Federal Reserve meeting minutes in April. This suggested yet again a reversion to
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the opposite stance, ie that no further stimulus may be forthcoming. So what exactly are the central bankers up to? Is anyone feeling confused?
only solution would seem to be further and ever larger stimulus/ bailout packages.
Widespread inflation – a certainty Easy money policies – a reality We suggest that rather than chasing such news and taking the central bankers’ words as gospel, investors should place more emphasis on considering the underlying economic realities. When doing this one comes to realise that the central banks of the West, be it the US Federal Reserve or the European Central Bank, may have little choice but to continue easy-money policies. Their underlying economies appear too weak to be able to fund and control an escalating sovereign debt burden – regardless of what they may want to do and what they may say from one day to another. All this is becoming particularly obvious again in the Eurozone. Two massive long-term refinancing operation (LTRO) tenders have only been able to keep the crisis under wraps for a limited time and, as the effects wear off, fear has crept back into the market. Spain has been hard hit in the form of a very poorly received bond auction that has sent the country’s bond yields rising yet again, together with Italy’s. It appears that little can be done to stop these yields from rising yet again, and spinning out of control – as has been seen in Greece. The
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Talking about Greece’s path, investors should note that the widely hailed bailout deal has not fixed or improved the situation, as Greece’s economy continues to decline. The country’s production and new order volumes, as measured by the Markit Greece Manufacturing PMI, is declining at the sharpest pace in the survey’s near 13-year history.
Markit Greece Manufacturing PMI (50.0=no change)
Increasing rate of growth
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MONEYMATTERS
Euro area and EU27 unemployment rates — Euro area (EA17), seasonally adjusted series
— EU27, seasonally adjusted series
With unemployment rising strongly again across the Eurozone (it has now climbed to a new record, higher even than in the aftermath of the 2008 crisis) amid weakening economic numbers, it seems clear that further bailouts for Spain and Italy can no longer come from the ‘stronger’ European Union countries. Even France and Germany lack such immense further resources, so any cash injection would have to come straight from the government printing presses.
Lies from the top – a necessity? In evaluating the words of central bankers, the investing public should also always bear in mind that they all-toooften say there is nothing to worry about, precisely when there is a massive problem. For example, Ben Bernanke stated in March 2007 that “the impact… of the problems in the subprime markets seems likely to be contained” – this was just before the debt crisis really got underway.
Accordingly, investors are advised not to take central bankers at their word nor overestimate their abilities to responsibly address crises. Bankers may say that the economy is improving and that inflation is under control simply to ease the public’s fears about inflation, while quietly getting ready for the next major round of LTROs or quantitative easing. At this point, even if the politicians and central bankers know that inflation is going to be a problem, they would probably have no choice but to lie about it. This is because if investors were to become increasingly concerned about inflation, they would demand higher yields on bonds of even the major Western countries. Higher bond yields would in turn mean higher debt-servicing costs, which is the last thing most Western countries could afford now. Notably this includes the supposed safe heaven of the United States, which is “about two years away from where Greece was when it had its debt crisis”, according to David M Walker, the former US comptroller general (director of the US Government Accountability Office). Against this backdrop, the outlook in particular for the demand for gold/ precious metals as an inflation hedge should remain positive, if not intensify. As the Western debt crisis escalates and likely morphes into an inflation crisis, China’s growing fondness for gold (the country is expected to overtake India this year as the world’s top gold consumer) is likely to lend further sustainable price support.
The Federal Reserve's Balance Sheet Operation Twist/Liquidity Swaps 7/13/2011 2859.10
1/18/2012
QE2 12/17/2008 2253.74 11/17/2010 2293.18
QE1 Emergency Fed Lending
9/10/2008 888.28
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Martin W. Hennecke is associate director of Tyche Group Ltd, an independent Hong Kong-based investment and financial advisory firm specialised in providing individually tailored discretionary portfolio management and comprehensive financial planning strategies. Email him at mhennecke@tyche-group.com for more information
Ch
e st
TALKINGPOINTS
em KM of H tes y ou r to c Ph o
lifetime
or y
gift of a
A present that preserves a family’s history will make Mother’s day on May 13. Mary Singer looks into memory booking, quilting and more
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crapbooking has become a booming industry in recent years. Walk into a scrapbooking shop or browse online, and the selection of colours, papers, patterns, stickers, borders, covers, albums – not to mention entire scrapbooking furniture sets, will make your head spin. Why do so many people put such effort into this pastime? It’s about keeping your past alive with the present and future. For many, it is important to go through life and remember life lessons; good or bad ones, because these are the memories you want to share. The finished product is a keepsake, but the process itself also generates memories.
Paper-based family memoirs There are many ways to make memory books. You can buy scrapbooking items online or in local shops. Pages can also be laminated and coil-bound, or slipped into the plastic pages of a file bought at any stationery store. If photography is your preferred way to tell your family history, various websites specialise in making photo books. Doing an online search with the words ‘photo album making’ will quickly put you onto a long list of online businesses that can create any family memento you can dream up. This kind of family bookmaking doesn’t have to be solely pictorial, however. People are starting to write their own family history books. If you give it a try, you will be amazed by how grateful it makes your mothers, cousins, aunts and uncles. The project may also inspire some of them to do similar projects relating to the other side of their families. You can get a printer to make any number of copies, large or small, and even hire book packagers and print-ondemand publishers to help see your project through to a professional looking finish.
Heirlooms you can use every day But family memories don’t have to be paper based – you can also use clothes to make precious heirlooms. Old furs and woollen coats, chenille bedspreads and ancient tweeds are being turned into gorgeous old-fashionedstyle Teddy bears, sold in the most up-market gift shops. Or you can give your children’s favourite old clothes a new and practical lease on life by sewing them into quilts that you can keep forever and pass down. Making use of the clothes you feel you can’t give away is a way of bringing their memories back to life, not only for yourself but for others as well. Don’t forget there are plenty of other options; having your old baby shoes bronzed, plaster casts made of hands and feet, favourite photos transposed onto canvas tote bags or coffee cups – all of these make treasured mementoes that have the benefit of utility as well.
So the next time you are wondering about what special gift you can give to your mother – or yourself – think about creating family memoirs, in any form. There is no better gift than the wisdom of a lifetime, or the chronicle of a life whose memories will otherwise fade way.
Find it Life casting: Shadow (Lantau-based) Personal moments preserved in a sculpture - silver, bronze and more Shadow at 9150 4033 www.shadow.com.hk
Scrapbooking: HK Memory Chest (DB-based) Scrapbooking retail shop and classes for children and adults carla@hkmemorychestonline.com www.hkmemorychestonline.com
Tips on taking family photos, with Tracey Van Geest • When photographing your family keep it fun. Tell a joke or have them say something silly, this helps to capture a spontaneous image • Have your kids’ favourite toys close by as this helps them relax and can result in a really great candid image • Be aware of your background; keep it plain and simple. Crop out what you don’t want and be sure to fill the frame • Don’t be afraid to get down on your children’s level, even if this means laying on your stomach
You can contact Tracey on t_vangeest@hotmail.com
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TECHTREND
scan and share Have you noticed new barcodes on flyers, websites and on the back of your wine bottle or eticket? Paula Lepore Burrough unearths a new technology
Q
R code is short for Quick Response Code. This two-dimensional, blackon-white patterned square reads quickly and can store more data than the standard barcode. It was invented in 1994 to allow the automotive industry to track vehicles during the manufacturing process, but today anyone can discover the fun uses of QR codes. All you need is a mobile device with a camera and QR reader application installed. Encoded information can now consist of almost any type of data. Last year, in America 14 million people were scanning QR codes and the phenomenon is now growing in Hong Kong for both personal and commercial purposes. A QR generator website makes it easy to create a QR code; personal favourite sites include QR Stuff, Kaywa and SnapVu.
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Easy Access
Entertainment
Making Music
Augmented Reality (AR)
Tired of typing out your home address, email or Uniform Resource Locator (URL) address over and over again? You can translate any type of content into a QR code, including images, a document or a set of instructions on Google maps. Simply generate then insert to print or send a QR code via a text message or email. Jazzy QR code uses include making business cards, marketing your product or event on a T-shirt, creating a link to your social site, or using Twittertools for voting. If you’re the organised type, you might find QR Stuff’s integrated foreground colour tool useful for various types of content.
Throw a bit of tech into your next party to distract your text-addict friends. Place some prompting ‘get to know me’ questions around the room using QR codes. Then keep your fingers crossed for some interesting conversations to spark up the ambiance. Or organise a beach scavenger hunt, if you have some young teenagers to entertain for an afternoon. Place QR-coded clues at various locations around the beach to keep them active and engaged. Your efforts to make some use of their mobile devices should at least impress them. Have your guests come prepared with a free QR reader application such as Scan, QR Reader, I-nigma or Easy AR.
QR Voice is a very simple web-based application that allows you to record or type text in 40 different languages. Once encoded, your message (of up to 100 characters) is reproduced with a synthesised voice. Another nifty feature, if you know how to say something in another language, but are not sure how to write it, this application will transpose your voice into text. Be creative and leave a voice message in a holiday greeting card or use QR Voice reflections at an art or design technology exhibition. In the future, QR Music (QR code discs) may replace existing music media. This is simply because the QR codes will hold more content in less space.
Cool new technology is using QR codes to create three-dimensional (3D) AR images; String AR Showcase is a good place to explore. After installing the application, you are directed to a website to print out a few pictures. You then use the application to scan the printed pictures and watch the 3D images appear. Or, if you are collecting resources for a project, try Daqri. This online tool allows you to add various types of content including AR images. You’ll find additional AR content at Google Sketchup Warehouse, Flat Pyramid and Turbosquid. The beauty is that others can share their thoughts by leaving comments for you.
May 2012
Photos by Catharine Nicol
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Beijing, crazy big metropolis that it is, makes for a fantastic urban holiday destination. Catharine Nicol hones in on the hotspots, both old and new
The Forbidden City
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he Beijing 2008 Olympic Games galvanised the city and its citizens into marching into the 21st century, and the result sees Old Peking (the Forbidden City, Great Wall and Summer Palace) holding its own against New Beijing’s onslaught of skyscrapers, luxury hotels, museums and shopping malls. The combination is surprisingly harmonious, and gives an added depth to a holiday here. Summer in Beijing is warm, and the best way to explore the city is from the back of a mountain bike. I’m flying along on a modern descendant of China’s iconic Flying Pigeon bicycle brand; the high temperatures wafted away by the breeze. Many of the capital’s citizens have retreated inside four-wheeled transport, from groaning buses and clapped-out rust buckets to the priciest, corporate gas-guzzling monsters and the shiniest of people carriers. Statistics suggest there are over 5 million cars competing for space on Beijing’s roads, but I am in good company pedalling along the bike lanes; two wheels often beating four. Entertainingly I’m the recipient of anything from blank stares and surprised glances to cheery ni hao’s (hello’s).
The Summer Palace
As getting around in this city can be challenging and frustrating, it’s as well to choose your base carefully. Several boutique hotels provide stylish digs in parts of town that are convenient for various iconic sites. The Great Wall
The Forbidden City The Summer Palace It feels as if all of the country’s 1.3 billion people descend on the Forbidden City (and nearby Tiananmen Square) on festival days. So choose carefully when you visit the evocative collection of homes of Emperors past. Let your imagination wander and bring classic Chinese movies to mind – like The Last Emperor. At Tiananmen long lines of tourists queue to file past Mao’s body in the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall; tour groups identified by the colour of their baseball hats, beneath which they’re gently cooking in the blue-sky sunshine. The man himself looks down over khaki-clad soldiers posing for photos, and all the extended families wide-eyed at the scale of the square, the colossal crowds, the occasion. The appeal of the square is timeless; it’s just the people filling it who have changed since my first visit in 1999. Clothes are brighter and appearances more affluent; but the sense of awe in adults still contrasts with the oblivious attitude of their kids, fidgeting and playing. The tangible feel of past events, conspicuously absent from modern schools’ teachings, is stored in older memories, both Chinese and foreign. It’s a beautiful summer day seasoned with a slight chill of remembrance.
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It’s best to transfer to the beautifully efficient and easyto-navigate subway to get to the Summer Palace. Set on Kunming Lake, the palace was originally created in 1750 and rebuilt by Empress Dowager Cixi in the late 19th century. It remains an enduring blue lung in the north west of the city. Wake early for a Tai Chi lesson on its banks. Watch the birds fishing for breakfast, and hear the locals singing, exercising and hawking behind you as you move beneath the fronds of a weeping willow. The more I try to copy Henry, my young Tai Chi sifu (teacher), the more I glimpse the intricacies of this martial art, and understand why it takes years to master. Following in his ancestors’ footsteps, Henry embodies the mix of old Peking and new Beijing; his actions are historic, his sweatshirt, pants and sneakers are decidedly now. Classical Chinese music plays on his smart phone, perched on a pagoda wall.
The Great Wall Snaking up and down and around the hills outside Beijing, the Great Wall just has to be visited. If you have limited time, nip out to the touristy Badaling site (a few hours spent
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here is better than nothing), but the Huang Hua section (70 kilometres north of the capital) is far more attractive. I begin my walk at a roadside noodle shack, and climb up the paths to the wall, following it until it’s time to peel off and hike through a nearby village before looping back to my starting place. Watchtowers string the rollercoaster wall together; wild with greenery and occasional rubble, it is steep and dusty. On one super-steep downhill section the side walls have eroded away and there’s a drop on either side that disappears into the forest below. The skiddy, narrow stones are slick with dust, and I’m reduced to gingerly stepping backwards. At other places it’s a hard uphill slog, but surveying the incredible line of defence from a peak really kick starts the imagination. Some parts of the Great Wall date back over 2,000 years; I can almost see Chinese sentries battling to keep the Manchurians at bay.
798 Art District China has long been the toast of the international art world, and at the strikingly industrial 798 Art District, north-east of Central Beijing, you’ll find a mini town of galleries, boutiques and cafés. Stroll down the streets within the complex and you’ll pass a bus turned art gallery, then a trio of cages stacked one on top of the other, gorillas frozen in gesticulating poses inside, the whole painted an eye-catching red. After you’ve picked up a painting, there are numerous alleyways lined with alfresco cafés from which to take in your surroundings and, most importantly, people watch.
Sanlitun No visit to Beijing would be complete without a day-tonight experience at Sanlitun. The collection of street-side boutiques, malls and eateries can keep you entertained for weeks. Alongside the usual collection of luxury brands, you can find gems like Bei Style full of French prêt-a-porter, Chinese street fashion at Copa, fantastic kids’ clothing at Tang’ Roulou and collectables at Willow Willow. Pop into the Olive Café for an alfresco brunch to fuel up pre-retail therapy, and once you’re loaded with shopping, plan your evening’s entertainment. Start at Apothecary, where the cocktail mixing has morphed into an art form. Prop up the bar and watch the mixologists at work, or sit at tables snacking on homemade smoked meats and pickled veggies. A little later you can ramp up the volume, and the action, at D Lounge a few minutes’ walk away, where the mesmerising bar with its archway backdrop of bottles looks out onto mixed seating and Beijing’s fashionistas.
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Sanlitun by night
Hip haunts The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square: Stay at the contemporary Hotel Kapok Beijing (www. kapokhotelbeijing.com); eat at The Courtyard Restaurant (www.courtyardbeijing.com); spa at Dragonfly Retreat (www.dragonfly.net.cn) The Summer Palace: Stay and learn Tai Chi at Aman at the Summer Palace (www.amanresorts.com). This timeless collection of Chinese buildings, set in courtyard formations, previously lodged the guests of Empress Cixi The Great Wall: Stay at the 16-room, eco Brickyard (www.brickyardatmutianyu.com), or artist’s creation Commune by the Great Wall Hotel (www.commune. com.cn); eat at The Schoolhouse’s Canteen (www. theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com) 798 Art District: Stay in an artist’s studio at the eclectic and contemporary Grace Beijing (www.gracehotels. com); eat Italian and listen to jazz at Cave Café’s bright restaurant or breezy patio (www.thebeijinger.com/ directory/cave-cafe) Sanlitun: Relax in luxurious, exclusive style at The Opposite House (www.theoppositehouse.com), or multi-coloured too-cool Hotel G (www.hotel-g.com)
ACTION
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endurance DB uber-athlete Matt McLaughlin walks us through the Kokoda Challenge, a 96-kilometre mountain race which he completed in just over 30 hours
Photos by Rocky Roe, Wendy Seymour and Mick Wilson
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he World War Two battlefields of the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea saw some of the Pacific Theatre’s most bitter fighting. By the time the six-month campaign was over, with Allied forces prevailing and driving the Japanese back to the northern coast, 625 Australian troops had been killed with many more wounded or too sick to fight. One historian puts Japanese losses at 8,000. Today the Kokoda Track has a special place in Australian military history, and walking in the footsteps of the brave defenders of Port Moresby has become something of a pilgrimage. Guided hikes of the track (lasting from four to seven days) have become increasingly popular – in 2010 over 4,000 made the journey. Even without enemy gunfire to contend with, and with an army of porters to carry your heavy backpack, hiking the dirt trail across the Owen Stanley Mountain Range, that links the capital Port Moresby with the north-coast beachheads of Buna and Gona, is not for the fainthearted. It snakes up and over precipitous dogtooth ridgelines, plunges down and across numerous raging mountain streams, and winds through both steaming, choking tropical jungle and frigid high-country grasslands. The brutal ups and downs add up to over 10,000 metres of ascent, the equivalent of scaling Mount Everest from sea level. For the masochists amongst
May 2012
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us, there is a tougher (some would say crazy) option: to run the track solo, non-stop.
The first 12 hours And so it was I found myself lined up under the commemorative arches at Owers’ Corner taking part in the annual 96-kilometre Kokoda Challenge, alongside 28 starters (including one other non-national, Sydney-based runner Will Bennett). At the start gun the field set off amidst whoops and cheers down the steep switchback trail to the Goldie River, the first of many river crossings. The race was to take me over 24 hours of non-stop running, and presented all competitors with a major test of fitness and willpower.
Matt at the start, revving up for a 31-hour marathon
After crossing the Goldie River, the track disappeared into the damp, sticky jungle. There was nothing but green: no sky, no noise, just an eerie quiet and the oppressive embrace of the jungle. Hours later, after a torturous ascent up the Imita Ridge, I arrived at a checkpoint in the village of Ua-Ule. I stopped to joke in Pidgin English with the local race marshals, and refuelled the tank with fire-roasted kaukau (sweet potato) and orange cordial. From here the track climbed again, this time up to Ioribaiwa Village, the furthest point of the Japanese advance in 1942. By early afternoon I had made it to the longest flat section of the
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Views from Alola Village down to Isurava
race – a swampy six kilometres along the Naoro River basin. Here I was dive-bombed by a formation of flies doing their best impersonation of a squadron of Japanese Zeros and had to pick up the pace to evade them. Running alongside the airstrip at Menari Village I passed a group of trekkers setting up camp in a kaukau patch on the northern side of the strip. One, seeing my race vest and realising I was taking on the track solo, yelled out to me, “Do you know what the letters M A D stand for?” I smiled and kept on running. After yet another steep climb up to Brigade Hill I arrived at the halfway point, Efogi Village, at twilight. My elapsed time of 11 hours 30 minutes had me on track to achieve my pre-race goal of a sub-24-hour finish, and I set off in good spirits.
at Eora Creek. This section was painfully slow, made more frustrating by the fact that I could hear the roar of the creek for over an hour before I finally got down there. As I stopped at the checkpoint, a competitor bounded past me like a stag up the grassy trail. My energy levels dropped, a touch of dehydration set in, and I imagined I was in near-last place. I didn’t know at the time that over half the field had pulled out due to injuries and exhaustion, and I was on track for a good finish. After another epic ascent up to Alola Village, an interminable vegetation-strangled contour trail to Isurava,
Navigating at night Things soon got more difficult with the track a lot harder to navigate in the dark. I got a bit lost passing through Naduri, when the track fizzled out in the village sports field, and I had to wake up some residents and ask directions. From here there was a gentle upslope to the turnoff for the Kagi Gap, and on to the race’s highest point, Kokoda Gap. With a katabatic (fall) wind picking up, and the temperature dropping below 10 degrees Celsius, I stopped at the checkpoint near Myola junction, a bush-material hut on the banks of a mountain stream. Inside, several racers lay huddled around an open fire, and through the smoke I saw the carcass of a freshly killed cuscus (possum) on a spit over the flames. I stayed long enough to wolf down a plate of tinned beef and rice, before hitting the trail again. I was soon in the Moss Forest, where fungus and lichen coated every tree like cling-wrap; my footfalls muted by the track’s damp moss-blanketed soil. Large patches of dew-soaked mountain grass appeared peripherally in my headtorch-light, flanking the track like a giant’s toupé collection. Here I saw the first signpost on the trail (the Kokoda Track is unmarked), a square of plywood with the words Vavu Campsite scrawled on it beneath a large arrow. In the middle of nowhere, in the Papua New Guinea mountains, the incongruous sign was hypnotic like a Vegas billboard. “Wow,” I thought, “This Vavu campsite must really be something!”
Tree roots make the trail heavy going
Track profile
A good finish By the time the sun rose, 25 hours into the race, I was making my way gingerly over knotted tree-roots and a jumble of mossy boulders down a steep ridgeline to the river crossing
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Race competitors
ACTION
The track wends its way through steamy tropical jungle
and a lengthy downhill to the village of Deniki, I staggered into Kokoda Village just after noon on day two. My finishing time of 31 hours and 47 minutes was well off the pace of the winner, Brendan Buka, but was good enough for an 11th equal place with the 2007 race champion Tom Hango (who introduces himself as Tom Hanks!). Tom, like me, had found the second half of the race particularly difficult. Bennett, the Australian runner, had also had it tough. He pulled out at the halfway point with severe knee pain and blisters, and it took a team of carriers 36 hours to stretcher him to Kokoda Village. He was so touched by the help and generosity of the local people he gave them everything but the clothes on his back on his arrival at the Kokoda hostel. He later told me that Australian customs treated him with great suspicion on his return to Sydney Airport, arriving as he did, like a World War Two soldier, with no possessions and empty bags.
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Hiking the track Several companies run guided trips along the Kokoda Track. It’s best attempted during the dry season, from May to July. The controlling agency, the Kokoda Track Authority has more details at www.kokodatrackauthority.org/
The Kokoda Challenge Gail Thomas of Kokoda Trekking Ltd organises the race. Her company also offers five- to seven-day guided treks. Visit www.kokodatrail.com.au or email trekking@kokodatrail.com.au
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high life
No terrace? No yard? No problem with a carefully decked-out balcony, writes Elizabeth Kerr
U
sable terraces and rooftops in Hong Kong come at a premium, and functioning yards are the stuff of fantasy. Nonetheless it seems everyone wants a little bit of the outside to come in – even when accompanied by the dulcet tones of jackhammers and speeding minibuses. Older buildings are hit and miss, but developers are increasingly building apartment towers that include balconies. How much a balcony is used comes down to a number of factors. How comfortable are you 23 storeys up? Is there any sort of view? Is it a good size or just a sliver suitable for waxing poetic with a dude in pantyhose? Either way, a balcony is a valuable bit of space that’s easy enough to exploit with a little thought and at a variety of price points. For many people it’s tempting to put those 15, 25 or 50 square feet to totally prosaic ends. “In Hong Kong balconies are small and often used for hanging clothes or kids playing,” notes outdoor furniture retailer Everything Under the Sun’s Janice Ortmann. “So we sell a lot of folding chairs and extendable tables and the like. And a lot of our furniture is also more European- rather than American-sized.” The outdoor lifestyle is taking off according to Janice, and locals and expatriates alike are starting to understand the value of enjoying a relaxing glass of wine with friends or quiet cup of tea with a book. Outside. It’s clear that functionality and size are interlinked but even the tiniest balcony can be put to good use. If it is really cramped then you can add a small table, one or two chairs and some plants to at least have a place to sit, maybe using a long, deep bench. Go with your gut instinct – it makes perfect sense not to over-design miniature balconies, especially in rentals.
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STYLE
Expanding your space If you own your flat, depending on the size and placement of the balcony, you could knock down a few walls and incorporate the space into the fundamental layout. “Theoretically it could be done by [meeting specific] requirements. First, by arranging an authorised person to do the submission to the Buildings Department (BD) for Alteration and Addition (A & A) work, which states the change of the outlook of the building and function of the balcony to that of a domestic area,” explains Kelvin Yiu at Ecdeco Construction. “If passed by the BD, then you need to have approval from the Incorporated Owners (IO) of the building to change the appearance of the building and you must assign a registered contractor to carry out the work.” Also? No heavy loading where the original balcony was. A balcony can be redesigned illegally of course – and on the cheap. It’s common enough but the downside is getting caught by the BD and being compelled to reinstate the balcony to its original state. “If you want to go down the legal route then you can enlarge the opening or windows, assuming the wall is not a structural wall onto the balcony. Visually that makes the apartment feel bigger,” interior designer Monique McLintock says. This involves calculating the spare allowable gross floor area, which often comes to a whopping zero, and then submitting plans to the BD. This is an option for owners as the process can be expensive. It will cost around HK$70,000 for a trained Authorised Person (AP) to do the plans and submit them.
neighbourhood hardware store. A novel alternative to both is a fireplace. Yes, a fireplace. Safretti makes eco-friendly, indoor-outdoor, space-saving fireplaces that do not require a power source, outlet, piping, or chimney. While the singleburner models are purely decorative, Dora Sui of Kitchens + Interiors notes that the regular models are strong enough to serve as heat sources.
Filling in the details
“For a balcony, we would recommend either the stackable floor-standing Cube fireplace, or the wall-mounted Gaya. Both are simple and elegant, and would be an attractive focal point without overpowering a small Hong Kong balcony,” Dora says.
Tenant or owner, the first step is always determining the end goal. What goes onto a small to mid-sized balcony, how many uses the space will ultimately have and even considering its exposure will solve those problems. And then it’s time to think about buying a few key pieces.
And overpowering might just be the cardinal sin of balcony design. “Don’t overcrowd it. That’s the biggest thing,” Janice concludes. “At the end of the day you won’t use it and it won’t be inviting. Go smaller rather than bigger and you’ll actually enjoy it more.”
For Janice, who notes that Hong Kong has one of the harshest environments in the world (a deadly cocktail of heat, sun, humidity and pollution), natural materials don’t hold up. Since maintenance and cleaning are issues, she points to quick-dry foams and Sunbrella fabrics. Of basic furniture she notes, “Oh, you can take a hose to almost all outdoor furniture now, with synthetic rattan and weaves, synthetic leathers by Ferrari and so on.” Happily, it seems we’ve come a long way from plain old white plastic. If you’re lucky, light will spill outside from whatever room the balcony is accessed, but lighting, heating and cooling sometimes need to be considered. A licensed electrician can often rig a power source to run a small fan or space heater, helping you out in the dog days of summer and dead of winter. As for light retailers, you can unearth understated wall-mount lights inexpensively from IKEA or your friendly
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Safretti’s Riviera fireplace at Kitchens + Interiors
May 2012
Find it Ecdeco Construction New Tech Plaza, San Po Kong 2768 8538 Everything Under the Sun Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau 2554 9088 www.everythingunderthesun.com.hk Kitchens + Interiors Ruttonjee Centre, Central 2810 0979 www.kitchensandinteriors.hk Monique McLintock Interiors Ltd Tai Shing Building, Sheung Wan 6779 3791 www.moniqueinterior.com
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The inaugural exhibition at the new Pearl Lam Galleries takes a fresh look at Chinese contemporary abstract painting by featuring eight leading artists of different generations. The roomy gallery, scheduled to open on May 15, will show the works of Li Xiaojing, Qin Yufen, Qiu Zhenzhong, Zhu Jinshi, Yan Binghui, Su Xiaobai, Zhang Jianjun and Li Huasheng. The exhibition is curated by renowned scholar of Chinese contemporary art, Professor Gao Minglu. The accompanying catalogue includes a dialogue with British curator Paul Moorhouse, of the National Portrait Gallery, London, on the differences between Chinese and Western abstract art. See for yourself at 6/F Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central, or visit www.pearllam.com.
If you’re partial to Chinese cuisine with a kick, try the Sichuan Farmers’ menu at Yunyan Sichuan Restaurant in Tsim Sha Tsui. These authentic and robustly flavoured rustic dishes present some listings with which diners may not be familiar. Try the cold appetiser of sliced marinated pork shank in brown vinegar and braised garlic – the meat is soaked in pickle, then vinegar and garlic and chilli, resulting in a mildly sour and spicy taste. The mainstays from the a la carte are a cut above. To make a reservation, call Marinated pork shank 2375 0800.
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White calligraphy, 1984, by Zhu Jinshi
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May 2012
Check out the new attractions at Ocean Park! The giant pandas enclosure has been renamed the Hong Kong Jockey Club Sichuan Treasures with the addition of two female golden monkeys, Le Le and Hu Hu, on loan from the Department of Forestry of Sichuan Province and Chengdu Zoo. Also launched very recently was Le Le and Hu Hu at Ocean Park Old Hong Kong, a new attraction that celebrates local culture, history, architecture, traditional snacks and entertainment of yesteryear. All is set against a carefully researched streetscape based on tong lau (terraced) apartment buildings and storefronts. Find more information at www.oceanpark.com.hk.
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Gallic festival Organised by the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, in collaboration with the Alliance Française, this year’s Le French May (the 20th edition) runs through June 23. More visually aware readers may already have noticed some outdoor display boards along Tsim Sha Tsui’s promenade, where Playgrounds: Contemporary Paul as Pierrot, 1925, French Photography features a Pablo Picasso mixed show of contemporary landscapes. As ever, programmes run the gamut of visual arts, classical and modern music and stage performances, cinema and fashion, plus culinary ‘arts’ from Le French May. Within 2012’s 20 exhibitions, 50 performances, and 50 movie screenings, the Picasso show is a highlight – featuring 48 oil paintings and seven sculptures, including famous works from each notable period of the artist’s eightdecade career. Talks and workshops related to events are also being held. Go to www.frenchmay.com.
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Daydreaming with… The Hong Kong Edition is a multi-media exhibition featuring over 30 local and international award-winning artists, showing at the ArtisTree in Quarry Bay, from May 4 to June 7. This free public exhibition includes video, sculpture, painting and performance, with all the unique installations produced in response to music, much of it composed by hip British Music-maker multi-media performers, UNKLE. The James Lavelle original Daydreaming with… James Lavelle, a super-cool London show, explored the marriage of art and music, gaining wide acclaim in 2010. The Hong Kong edition is curated by music-maker/ producer James Lavelle (of UNKLE fame), and Hong Kong-based artist Simon Birch. Visit www.thefutureindustries.com.
If your teenagers feel all summer camps are boring, perhaps working with performing arts professionals on a musical in the South of France is something they could get excited about. Susanna Tong, director of Beauville Arts Hong Kong, is offering 15 Hong Kong teens (age 10 to 18) the chance to be part of this amazing trip, July 26 to August 11. The Hong Kong kids will be working closely with other European teens on the English musical theatre show My Fair Lady. The campus is situated in a beautiful location near Toulouse; English lessons and cultural excursions will be organised in the second week. The group will also spend two days in Paris sightseeing. No previous music or stage performance experience is required – all the kids need is passion, talent and a sense of commitment. Contact Susanna Tong on 9493 8976 to check pricing and availability, or visit www.beauvillearts.com/hongkong. (There’s an early-bird bonus if you book before May 31).
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casabrasil.hk @ gmail.com
Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Bizzie Lizzie’s (childrens clothes and toys) Friendly Bike Shop Park ‘N’ Shop Red Hall Chinese Antiques Renge House (clothes & accessories) The Bookshop The Red Lantern Wellcome
2134 1234 2984 2227 2984 2278 2984 0249 2988 1368 2406 8122 2984 9371 2987 0099 2984 7884
SERVICES & OTHERS
Hop Sing Automobile Jumping Castles SPCA Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio) Zoe Lyle Photography
2984 1410 9662 1747 2984 0060 9025 3949 9062 0148 6351 8923 9834 5498
TRANSPORTATION
Lee Hing Loong Hon Kee Transportation Company Lantau Tours New Lantau Bus Company Sun Rising Moving Company
2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848 9036 3132
THE RED LANTERN Genuine antiques, small pieces of delightful furniture from the late Ching Dynasty. Families Maternity Babies Events Capturing special moments in a natural, warm and casual manner. Stunning portraits to capture the spirit and energy in everyone. zlyle@me.com | www.zoelylephotography.com | +852 9834 5498
4 minutes' walk from the ferry in Mui Wo in the direction of the Silvermine Beach Hotel.
Free Delivery to DB Tel: 2987 0099 Fax: 2980 4833 glandam@netvigator.com
COMMUNITY DBEES ICE HOCKEY
The DBees are a non-profit, Discovery Bay community-based, ice hockey team. We are committed to the development of youth ice hockey in Hong Kong. Our programme is available for all skill levels, age 5 & up. All information on our website: www.dbeeshockey.com
DB ANGELS FOOTBALL CLUB
Another successful HKIS football tournament for DBAFC! DBAFC is a community-run club open to all girls between the ages of 6 & 14, who don’t want to lie in on a Sunday morning! The parents coach our kids! Come & join us – our girls are just kickin’! For more information, visit www.dbangelsfc.hk
DB PIRATES RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB
Discovery Bay Pirates Rugby Football Club is a fast-growing local sports club founded in 2003. It has grown from 30 players in the Minis section (U6-U12) to almost 400 Minis & Colts/ Youth (U14-U18) today. We offer Under-6 rugby through to a new senior team. You can join online at www.dbpirates.com
COMMUNITY
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
DB TIGERS BASEBALL CLUB
THE SKIN THERAPY CENTRE IN DB
Discovery Bay Tigers is a parent-run non-profit organisation for players of all abilities, ages 5 to 13. We run a baseball programme for 9-13 year olds at DB North pitch and a T-Ball programme for ages 5-8 at DBIS. Visit www.dbtigers.com
EMPLOYMENT BAREFOOT WINE & BUBBLY is looking for a part-time Brand Ambassador from the DB community to introduce the brand, set up venue displays & serve wine tastings at events in Discovery Bay. Requirements: aged 18 +, energetic, passionate, out-going, cheerful. We will provide training. Please contact Kat Lee at 2213 9182 or kat.lee@ejgallo.com L’ECOLE FRANCAISE DE DISCOVERY LTD is looking for a native French-speaking Speech Therapist (Orthophoniste). For more information, please call 6538 1578, or e-mail info@ecole-discovery.com LA PETITE ENFANCE is looking for a certified French-qualified teacher (Professeur des Ecoles) to work at our kindergarten in DB North as of September 2012. For more information, please call 6710 0391 or e-mail drh@la-petite-enfance.com
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
HYPNOSIS &/OR SHORT- TERM THERAPY
Quit smoking quickly. Post-divorce coaching. Resolve: • Fear of flying/ public speaking • Overeating • Couples’ conflicts • Career & command-training stress • Anger management • Phobias • Nail biting • Insomnia Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk
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Fully qualified, UK-trained beauty therapist with over 16-years’ experience. • C.A.C.I. – the new CACI ultimate, incorp MICRO-DERMABRASION, L.E.D LIGHT THERAPY, to treat lines & wrinkles plus facial toning using microcurrent exclusive to C.A.C.I • FACIALS – Nobel-prize winning SKEYNDOR stem plant system cell facials & homecare, DERMATOLOGICA products & Dr Murad VIT C, Glycolic peels & anti-aging treats GUINOT - HYDRADERMIE with Lifting Plus treatment • AROMATHERAPY - using 100%-certified organic oils • BODY MASSAGE / BODY SCRUBS/ WRAPS for slimming & detoxifying • REFLEXOLOGY • WAXING & EYELASH TINTING • COLOUR ME BEAUTIFUL make-over & colour analysis • GIFT VOUCHERS Call Gillian on 9604 6920/ 2987 0764
PROFESSIONAL BEAUTICIAN AVAILABLE FOR HOME APPOINTMENTS
• Facials - HK$150 up • Brazilian waxing - HK$160 • Full legs, arms, underarms - HK$150 • Pedicure, manicure, massages & haircuts. For ladies only. Please call Preeti on 3484 3758
HOME & REPAIRS BIOCYCLE (HK) LTD
Safe & Ecological Pest & Termite Management. ISO14001 & ISO9001 Certified. Unique biocide, BioKill®, ‘poison’ label exemption. Contact 3575 2575, info@biocycle.hk, or visit www.biocycle.hk
FTC LOGISTICS
• Local & international • Moving & storage • World-class service • Competitive rates Call 2814 1658, or visit www.ftc.hk
EXPERT TRANSPORT & RELOCATIONS MOVER
For local & international moves. Collection, storage & disposal. All sorts of handyman work: painting & tiling, & installation of TVs, pictures, fans etc. All-in-one professional service at attractive rates. Contact 2566 4799, www.expertmover.hk
NEED STORAGE?
• Low-cost storage • For a box to a whole house • Humidity controlled From HK$550/month. We collect & deliver. Call 2578 1865 or visit www.expertmover.hk
HOME & REPAIRS
KIDS
AKASH MOVERS
EARLY ADVENTURES PARTY TIME!
For all your moving needs, including packing materials, & full packing & moving services. Plus small deliveries & handyman services. Payment upon complete satisfaction. Best move - best rates. Call 2421 8088, or visit www.akash.hk
KIDS MIDGET GEMS RENTAL
Have an idea for a children’s business? We have a clubroom available for rent, afternoon time slots. Please call Koren on 9176 2990
MIDGET GEMS KIDS’ CLUB
Established playgroup for children from 2-4 years. Morning sessions with afternoons coming soon. A wonderful environment where children learn through play with our qualified & experienced teachers. Also offering Bilingual Gems, afternoon sessions in German & Mandarin. Please contact 2987 0272, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com
Need a venue for a party? Ideal playgroup environment with toys & activities. For further information, please call 9511 2107
GEMS OCCASIONS
Looking for that perfect party venue for your little gem? A colourful, safe & fun environment with toys & dress-up clothes. We have an entertainer upon request. We also tidy up! Please contact 9176 2990, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com
French Primary Classes Accepting registrations now for September 2012 Full-time Primary One class (Cours Preparatoire CP) with qualified, certified and experienced French teacher Official French distance learning Cned programmes for Primary 2 to 6
For more information, please call 6538 1578 or e-mail us at info@pmcuriehk.com.
EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP
A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play. Activities to stimulate all areas of development. Come & look at our facilities. Classes from 20 months to 4 years. Morning & afternoon sessions. Call 9511 2107, or visit www.earlyadventures.net
Looking for a place to stay? Check out our property listings
Begin a career in English Language Teaching
Trinity Certificate in TESOL
We are now accepting application for the following intensive 4-week CertTESOL courses: • 14 May – 10 June 2012 • 2 July – 29 July 2012 • 30 July – 26 August 2012
And the following 12-week part-time CertTESOL course: • 9 June – 27 August 2012 E peter.andrews@englishforasia.com T 2392 2746 W www.englishforasia.com/en/trinity
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PROPERTY DB
PROPERTY DB
SHORT-TERM LET
DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS
STYLISH SHORT-TERM RENTAL
NEW SHORT- OR LONG-TERM RENTAL
Newly renovated, 2 bedrooms with balcony. Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Brian on 9098-6951, or brian@headlandhomes.hk
Fully furnished, with cable TV, DVD, linens & towels provided. Contact 9159 2476 or sweet_castillo2001@yahoo.com
For lease. Fully furnished 1-2-bed apartments with beautiful decor, wi-fi & broadband. Well-equipped kitchen, luxurious bedding, weekly cleaning service. Contact Cherry on 2987 2626 or cherry@appletravel.com
Greenery Court, 1-bedroom flat with deluxe renovation. Modern & fully furnished with internet, 37’’ LCD TV & DVD. Contact Sandy on 9654 8862, or sandylamdb@yahoo.com.hk
GREENDALE COURT RENTAL
NICE SHORT-TERM RENTAL
Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525
Newly renovated studio flat with open kitchen, 5 minutes to pier. Fully furnished, with cable TV & broadband. Contact 2987 2468, or dbshortlet@yahoo.com.hk
LUXURY MODERN FLAT TO LET
PROPERTY DB
Short- or medium-term rental at Siena 2. 600’ 1-bedroom flat with sea views, near North Plaza, Club Siena & tunnel. Serviced & fully furnished with washer/dryer, bed linen & kitchenware. Plus wi-fi, broadband, blue-ray & home theatre. Contact 9317 0624 or nialady2011@gmail.com
LUXURIOUS 1-BED APARTMENT
Newly renovated, 550’ flat on a high floor with split-type air conditioning. Fully equipped with DVD & free wi-fi. Bedding & towels provided. Weekly cleaning available. Email dbaygreenish@gmail.com
STUDIO FOR SHORT-TERM LET Comfortable, nicely decorated studio, close to DB Plaza & pier, with fully equipped kitchen. 37” TV, DVD, wi-fi, linens & towels provided. Contact 9190 7348, niceroom_db@yahoo.com.hk 2-BED APARTMENT FOR RENT Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished. Contact 9108 5525
PROPERTY OVERSEAS
AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY
Everything you need to know about buying a property in Australia. Information on property markets, taxation, finance, migration & legal. Free online at www.aussieproperty.com
FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED RENTAL
Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view. Close to pier & DB Plaza. Call Tiareti on 9732 8985
CHERISH COURT TO LET
Fully furnished 2-bedroom, newly renovated flat. Tranquil with sea & Disneyland view, & wi-fi. Photos available. Contact Jacqueline at 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com
SHORT-TERM 3-BED RENTAL
Fully furnished, 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom flat in Jovial Court. Linen & fluffy towels provided, baby items available. LCD TV, DVD, wi-fi, telephone, washer & dryer. Fabulous views. Non-smoking flat. Call 6905 3765 evenings & weekends or email jovialflat@gmail.com
STUDIO FOR SHORT-TERM LET
Comfortable, nicely decorated studio, close to plaza & pier, with fully equipped kitchen. 37” TV, DVD, wi-fi, linens & towels provided. Contact 9190 7348, niceroom_db@yahoo.com.hk
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SPANISH VILLA FOR SALE
20 minutes from Valencia airport. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Large living room/ dining room & kitchen plus garage. Mature terraced gardens with Roman-style pool. Good holiday rental returns: 240,000 euros. For more details & photos, email snr.cranmer@gmail.com
PETS QUO QUO CLUB DOG SERVICES
Grooming, boarding & behaviour classes. Responsible, patient & detail-conscious in a hygienic & relaxed environment. Call Dave Chan, Associate Member of The Animal Care College, Berkshire, UK, on 9872 5439, or visit http://quoquoclub.com
SERVICES & OTHERS AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS Need to lodge your Australian tax return? If you are an expat or collect rental from Australian property, you must lodge an annual return. Let us do it for you here in Hong Kong. Contact Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, or helen.wong@smats.net, or visit www.smats.net
TRAVEL FLIGHT CENTRE
We have opened a new store in SoHo, 49 Caine Road! Speak to our travel experts to check out all the special offers and endless holiday possibilities! Contact 2830 2866, enquiry@flightcentre.com.hk or visit www.flightcentre.com.hk
TRAVEL
TUITION & COURSES
YANGTZE GORGES WITH JASON WORDIE
CHINESE (MANDARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH
Tour “Vinegar Joe” and the “Flying Tigers”. Six Days. Departs 17June, 2012. Concorde Travel 2526 3391 www.concorde-travel.com Licence 350343
TUITION & COURSES MATHEMATICS (GCSE, AS, SAT, IB, GMAT, ETC.) & ENGLISH TUITION
Offered by a London University graduate (First-Class Honours). Experienced in teaching adults, ESF & International School students. Call 9121 0389
Personal Professional Tutoring Services. • Curriculum: HSK, IB, GCSE, SAT • ESF & all international schools welcome • For Students Year 1-13 (Children to adults; homework/ exam to business) • Chinese: Mother-tongue tutors from PRC (Levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) • Mathematics: Tutors (UKB.Sc. Mathematics) • English: Native-English speaker (M.A in Education specialising in early-childhood stage) Email gracias8@hotmail.com
NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER CHINESE MANDARIN LESSONS
DB Mandarin Room at Phase 1. For Year 1-13 students: schedule on demand. Many groups of different levels to meet each student’s needs. Help with homework, revision, exams & more. For adults: beginners, intermediate & advanced classes every Monday, Wednesday & Friday, 10-11am. Please call 6071 9643, or visit http://tclearning.sinacool.com
From our classroom in Central, we provide English for all levels. IELTS, IGCSE, IB, general English, pronunciation, grammar & vocabulary for communication, job interviews & promotions. Plus academic English, presentation skills, etc. Private lessons HK$400-450. Contact 9478 4730, ChrisRose@RoseEnglish.com or visit www.RoseEnglish.com
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Your ultimate guide in DB
DBNUMBERS COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza BMSE, North Plaza Catholic Church (Trinity Chapel) DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Healthcare Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council
HOME 2987 0855 2259 3422 2988 1515 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 2666 6183 2834 7276 2987 7575 2987 9003 2259 3422
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre Marc James Design, North Plaza Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Season Art Kitchen Perfection Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre
LEARNING CENTRES 2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 0061 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2765 5700 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2987 1990 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428
L’ecole Pierre Et Marie Curie
L’Ecole Francaise de Discovery Limited French classes, specialised and tutorial services Block One, LG6, 92 Siena Avenue DB North, Discovery Bay Tel (+852) 6538 1578 info@pmcuriehk.com
Little Explorers
A fun place for little ones to play and have loads of fun, fun, fun! Tel: 9327 0507 Email: littleexplorers@team-fear.com
LEARNING CENTRES
Prince & Princess
Kids Wear & Accessories Shop G13B, G/F., North Plaza Tel: 2947 9228 Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm www.prince-princess.com.hk
International Academy of Performing Arts Discovery College www.actingantics.com Contact deborah@actingantics.com 852 6842 8092 - 8122 9475
Island Dance Freestyle, Jazz, Ballet & Tap Tel: 2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk
rush yoga ∙ fitness ∙ swim G/F, G35, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay Tel +852 2526 0720 www.rush.com.hk Mon – Sun: 10:30am to 7:30pm
Sunwood by Design
Apron Strings
Hands-on classes specially tailored for children, teens & adults.
Mandarin for Munchkins®
Tel: 9735 5724 www.apronstrings.com.hk
For kids 1 year and up Call 2480 3909 www. mandarinformunchkins.com
International Bodyfit Swimwear Exercise and Yoga Wear T: 6626 5470 www.sunwood-by-design.com
Treat Boutique "Treat yourself, Treat your wallet"
British Studio of Art Hong Kong
US Depatment store handbags, jewelry, ladies wear, men's wear and more...
ColourStorm Art Centre
Tel: 6163 3421
Tel: 2325-3999
In Style Little Whale Nomadic Start-rite shoes
2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098
DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven Convenience Store 7-Eleven Food Kiosk Fusion by PARKnSHOP GNC Mannings Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome
2987 4401 2914 1183 2987 7486 2987 9331 2987 1720 2987 4089 2947 9092
2851 8081 2233 3000 2822 3927 2682 1210 2987 1851
Established playgroup for children 2-4 years Tel: 2987 0272 info@ midgetgemskidsclub.com www.midgetgemskidsclub.com
Playgroups, parties, art-jamming and art classes for all ages!
Mountainview Montessori
Address: LG-10, Office Block One, 92 Siena Avenue, DB North Plaza. http://www.colourstormartcentre.com
Run by Montessori trained teacher Come and Join the Fun! mountainview_montessori@hotmail.com
Dumper Trucks & Daisies
Crawlers & Explorers - Wed afternoon Tots & Toddler’s - Mon, Tue & Thur afternoon Preparation Class - Fri morning Tel: 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com www.dumpertrucksanddaisies.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES AlcaMat Financial & Accounting Services HSBC HSBC Expat Travelex Money Exchange, North Plaza Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd
Midget Gems Kid’s Club
New art studio in DB for 2 year-olds to adults www.bsoahk.com info@bsoahk.com Tel: 9132 5249 / 6170 2875
First Friends & Second Friends DB’s largest & longest running playgroup Iin Porter 9151 5545 firstsecondfriends@yahoo.com www.firstfriendshk.com
ColourStorm Art Centre (North Plaza) DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri. / Sec.) DB Garden House Montessori Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Montessori School DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Learning Centre HK International Learning Academy Les Petits Lascars de DB SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten Treasure House
MULTIMEDIA
HOME
HK School of Highland Dance Highland Dance classes now available in DB All ages welcome
Butterfly Dreams Luxury Bed Linens Ltd. “Luxury that doesn’t cost the Earth” Tel. ( 852 ) 9770 4474 / 9779 9424 www.butterflydreams.com.hk
2325 3999 2914 2142 2987 7331 6114 2436 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2987 1201 2987 4338 9511 2107 2416 3088 2526 8892 2987 8608 2987 0813 2987 8143 2987 4217
Teacher qualified by the SDTA Tel: 9123 0863 Email: highlanddancehk@gmail.com
Bookazine, DB Ferry Dymocks & Gallery Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd Fun to Read Movieland Pen’n Paper P-Solution The Bookshop
2987 1373 2987 8494 2914 2378 3105 3588 2987 7111 2987 8898 2987 1777 2987 9372
OTHER SERVICES
PetcoDB Furniture, Wall paper, Interior Design and Home Furnishings Shop 119 DB Plaza Tel: +852 3482 5785 www.yaalidesigns.com, info@yaalidesigns.com
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Kindergarten, French classes and tutorial services. French kindergarten open for registrations for school year 2012-13. Accepting registrations for 2011-12. LG-05, 92 Siena Avenue, DB North Tel: 6710 0391 e-mail: info@la-petite-enfance.com
Grooming & Pet Services Wth Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love Tel: 2914 0382 Email: info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com
DBNUMBERS SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT
OTHER SERVICES Amity Shoe Care Apple Travel Co Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services
2987 4538 2987 2626 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151
Movement Improvement Pilates, yoga, posture & fitness 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk
REAL-ESTATE AGENCIES
Sportsmanship Gymnastics Programs, Health Consultancy, Weight Management & Nutritional Supplements Tel: 2870 3524 www.sportsmanship.usana.com
Lifestyle Homes Tel: 2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Centaline Property Agency Limited Century 21 Newcourt Realty EPS Property Consultants Ltd Headland Homes Kingsford DB Ltd Land Master Property Midland Realty
2987 8484 2987 9729 2987 2023 2987 2088 2987 6888 2987 6238 2987 2888
2987 2298 2987 8203 2987 0966 2987 2848 2987 0036 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 2886 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 0767 2987 1829 2987 1033 2987 8280 2987 1337 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2987 2915 2914 0005 2914 1308 2682 0068 2682 8108 2987 8202 2987 6232
24-hour Customer Service hotline China Light & Power Emergency China Light & Power Information Line Discovery Bay Commercial Services Discovery Bay Fire & Ambulance Discovery Bay Management Discovery Bay Medical Services Discovery Bay Office Centre Discovery Bay Police Discovery Bay Post Office Gas Leakage Emergency hotline Lantau North Report Room San Hing Gas Co Typhoon Signal Enquiries Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department
Body Talk
All your sporting needs right here in DB Tel: 2914 1323 Email: bruce@sportsworld.hk
Club Siena Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Residents Club
Holistic therapy for illness, stress, sports injury & learning disorders Tel: 6683 5755 angie@bodytalksystem.com.hk www.bodytalksystem.com.hk
2987 7382 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381
TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES
Child & Family Development Practice Developing Potential, exploring possibilities www.childdevelopment.com.hk info@childdevelopement.com.hk
Little Miss Green The Party Queen Eco Party Supplies, Toys, Games & Gifts www.missgreenpartyqueen.com
Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB Tel: 2987 2266
Penny Scallan Design Unique and individual Tel: 6015 4050 hk@pennyscallan.biz www.pennyscallan.biz
SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT
Professional beauty treatments
by qualified RN & Medical Aesthetics Consultant kittytang@professionals-beauty.com Tel: 5116 1617 www.professionals-beauty.com
Planting Ideas, Growing Minds.
Curves
Spa Siena
Tel: 2987 2608 soyhongkong@gmail.com www.seedling.com.hk
Women’s Fitness Centre Club Siena Discovery Bay
Ladies only day spa providing a wide range of massage treatment Tel: 2987 7382
Tel: 2987 0772 curvesdb@gmail.com www.curves.com
Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more! Tel: 2987 8923 / 9060 5240 embody-hk@live.com www.embody.com.hk
Sher Martelle-Climas, R.M.T.
Stuck on You
Bo Bo House Toysland
Afflatus Hair Workshop Maximum Care Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch
Football for 2.5yrs to 14yrs old girls and boys
Training at Lantau Boat Club, Tai Pak beach www.liocc.com
Call for rates 9503 9117
2987 4230 2987 7859
HK Dragons Football Club
Lantau Island Outrigging Canoe Club
Canadian trained Therapist offers clinical massage for stress, sports injuries, chronic back pain, pre & post natal. EFT also available. My home or yours.
Label It, Own It, Keep It! Tel: 2549 2245, 2987 2608 sales.hk@stuckonyou.biz www.stuckonyou.biz
TRANSPORT SERVICES
Tel: 2987 4274 www.dragons.hk
3651 2345 2728 8333 2678 2678 2987 4242 2987 7502 2238 3601 2525 6798 2238 3388 2987 4052 2987 6046 2435 4511 2988 2369 2987 6738 2835 1473 2811 0788 2824 5000
WELL-BEING
Sports World
RESTAURANTS 22º North Berliner Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Ebeneezer’s First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Ippu Japanese Restaurant Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery McDonald’s & McCafé McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Sopranos Subway Super Super Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Wildfire Fresh Zak’s
UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES
Limousine Rental
limo service in HK & China. pick up from / to DB Tunnel direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport Tel: 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@yahoo.com DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services
2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351 2987 6348 2987 0208 2987 9368
2987 0283 2987 2060 2987 4112 2987 9198
Around DB's June 2012 issue coming out
June 1 May 2012
71
DBMOMENTS
time for giving
Warren Chow, DB’s man on the ground in disaster-scarred Japan, invites us on a mission
W
arren Chow, the owner of Apple Travel in DB Plaza, wants us all to know about his latest travels, although it’s not something he can sell you as a package deal. At Chinese New Year, Warren and his wife took a holiday to Tokyo Disneyland, and at the nearby train station they picked up a leaflet about the Matsushima/ Fukushima area north of Tokyo – the area ravaged by the Tohoku Earthquake and tsunami. Later, back at the hotel, Warren, who had lived in Japan for eight years and can read Japanese, perused the leaflet and realised that its disturbing message did not match media reports saying that the Matsushima area — arguably one of Japan’s most scenic spots – was well on the way to recovery. Be that as it may, Warren and his wife returned to Hong Kong, although not before he set his heart on a fancy limited-edition watch at Narita International Airport. Over the next few days, Warren decided to go back to Tokyo to buy the watch. His friends teased him about his impending purchase, and about going back to Japan so soon. “They were excited, but I could not stop thinking about what I had read in the flyer,” says Warren. “So I changed my itinerary. I decided that I would go see for myself. If the flyer was true, I would use the money to help the people there. If not, I would buy the watch.” The next day, Warren made his way to East Matsushima and proceeded to document what he saw with photos and video. What you see, one year after the disaster, is utter ruin and desolation. Nobody lives there. And while the tourist area has been spruced up, a mere 10 kilometres away there are shades of Chernobyl. Warren gave a lot of
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money to people he met on that trip, including a university professor whose retirement home had been wiped off the map. But as a seasoned businessman, Warren knows that piecemeal hand-outs will not make a difference and he has been working on a long-term plan. Apple Travel is donating HK$200,000 as seed money. Step one: a second-hand mini-bus with two LCD TVs, showing the devastation of affected areas. Four times a day this bus will offer free 90-minute tours from Matsushima Station. “I believe, when you ask for donations on the street, you will only get a little money, and slowly,” Warren says. “But if they can see… kind people will donate more.” Step two: opening a ramen corner. No one lives in Matsushima anymore, but there are construction and clean-up crews who need the basics. “They need to eat, and they need conveniences – rice, shampoo and omiyage (regional gifts) to take back home as souvenirs. These shops will provide employment and, hopefully, be profitmaking,” explains Warren. “If the first location works, we will go on.” Warren’s new business is a real ‘boots-on-the-ground’ venture; there’s nothing glamorous about it. He is looking for, as he describes it, “A partner with heart – this investment will not be going back into anyone’s pocket – we will be expanding the concept.”
To contact Warren, or make a donation, drop by Apple Travel in DB Plaza or call 2987 2626